retail profiles // classy // images boutique mgh

Q&A with Kathleen Bazazi, buyer & manager

Ted Vayos, BODY: Describe your store for our readers.

Kathleen Bazazi: We are located inside Mass General Hospital in Boston. The location is the Yawkey Building 9 th floor, on the same floor as the breast surgeons . We specialize in intimate apparel and products to help with the physical side effects of cancer treatment. I started at Mass General in 2004 and managed The Hair Care. I work under the umbrella of the ladies visiting committee. This is a wonderful group of Ladies who provide many great services here at MGH. I asked if we could open a Boutique and carry the many products and services that a patient would need or want going through  treatment. The Ladies were happy to open the Boutique.  We also have a Cancer Center in Danvers Ma and opened a Boutique there. We provide Mastectomy fittings and have a great selection of bras and prosthesis to help with any symmetry issues.

Ted: What makes your store special?

Kathleen: Images is special Boutique that makes a client feel comfortable to shop.   Some products could not found in other stores. We have a highly trained professional staff to help minimize appearance issues after breast surgeries. A certified fitter will help with all options pertaining to each individual. We also carry intimate apparel Anita, Wacoal, Rosa Fia , Rhonda Shear and Hanky Panky .

Ted: What do you look for in a brand?

Kathleen: Our swim wear is Anita and Amoena . I have a great post surgical bra that Noonie Chabner Designed and it is made with great options for the patient leaving after surgery. I think American breast Care has a great post surgical or radiation bra it is style 110 and comes in a great size and color selection. Another great product is a shirt Piper Gore designed not only is it pretty it zips up the front to make it easy to get dressed post surgery.

Ted: Describe the popular styles or trends in your store.

Kathleen: Fun colors and styles are in. People want options and are liking molded cups that fit properly and  give a lift that fits comfortably. Hanky Panky is another popular must have.

Ted: Describe your price points and size ranges.

Kathleen: Our prices range from $ 22.00 to $78 approximately.

Ted: What is your typical or average customer size?

Kathleen: A typical customer is wearing anywhere from a 32a to a 46 dd . Size and style range from one client to the next.

Ted: What does your average customer spend per visit to your store?

Kathleen: The average customer spends $50 or more depending on what they are buying. A typical customer is a professional woman who not only wants to look good but fit comfortably in what she is wearing.

Ted: Describe your customer.

Kathleen: Our customer base is diverse with all different needs. We have many brands styles and sizes for this reason. Most clients need help to decide proper fit and style and our staff is very happy to help.

Ted: What has impacted your business the most over the past year?

Kathleen: Our business is always growing. I  think that our reputation for the product selection and customer service keeps our old clients coming back and our new clients happy. I am fortunate to work in an industry that is always growing with great product designs. At  the same time I feel rewarded with helping others and giving women some great options through a difficult time in their life.